Lloyd makes cut for Italy showdown

Evan Lloyd will make only his second start for Wales in their crucial Six Nations clash with Italy.

The Penarth-born hooker made his full international debut in last Friday's 43-0 defeat against France - but he served a spell in the sin-bin during the first half for a high tackle on Louis Bielle-Biarrey.

Head coach Warren Gatland has named two changes - with Cardiff number eight Taulupe Faletau passed fit to replace Aaron Wainwright, who drops to the bench despite recovering from a facial injury.

Scarlets centre Eddie James is given his first start, coming in for the injured Owen Watkin, after he was carried off with an ACL injury in Paris.

Saturday's clash in Rome will be crucial towards Wales' hopes to avoiding back-to-back wooden spoons as they look to end a record barren run of 14 defeats in international Test rugby.

Gatland said: "This has been an important week with a lot of hard work put in during training."

“We want to be accurate and disciplined on Saturday. It’s about our execution and how we manage the game."

“We know Italy are a quality side with physical players and are looking forward to a good contest. We’re excited for the challenge on Saturday.”

Wales XV to face Italy: Liam Williams; Tom Rogers, Nick Tompkins, Eddie James, Josh Adams; Ben Thomas, Tomos Williams; Gareth Thomas, Evan Lloyd, Henry Thomas, Will Rowlands, Dafydd Jenkins, James Botham, Jac Morgan (capt), Taulupe Faletau
Replacements: Elliot Dee, Nicky Smith, Keiron Assiratti, Freddie Thomas, Aaron Wainwright, Rhodri  Williams, Dan Edwards, Blair Murray